Methane leaks in Turkmenistan remain high

Turkmenistan had set itself ambitious targets: By joining the Global Methane Pledge, the country wanted to significantly reduce its emissions. However, new data shows a different picture - and casts doubt on the effectiveness of these pledges. Analyses by international researchers show that Turkmenistan remains one of the world's biggest producers of methane emissions. What is particularly striking is that plants in the Central Asian state dominate the largest known methane leaks. Yet methane is considered one of the most climate-damaging greenhouse gases - and leaks could be remedied relatively easily. Officials in Ashgabat recently declared that they had the situation under control and were closing leaks quickly. However, independent assessments have not yet shown any substantial progress. This is frustrating for experts - especially as the technological solutions have long been available. The discussion is becoming even more explosive because Turkmenistan is increasingly eyeing the European gas market. However, the requirements there are growing: The EU is working on stricter limits for methane emissions from imported gas. Satellite data is now making the problem more visible than ever before. Thousands of recorded methane plumes show the extent of the emissions - and are increasing international pressure on the country. The post Methane leaks in Turkmenistan remain high appeared first on ostwirtschaft.de.